Greek Isles and Ancient Wonders - 12 nights, October 2013

An air-conditioned minibus with an English-speaking guide and local driver is offered on this tour. This is a private vehicle; those accompanying you are family or friends with whom you agree to share costs. We do not match groups of guests to form a private group for the vehicle. Vehicles and guides are extremely limited and so early reservation is recommended to avoid disappointment. No deviations to duration, venues if included or departure and return times can be made.

The tour fare is per vehicle and only one person in the party should book a ticket. The entire cost of the vehicle and tour will be charged to that person’s credit card. Once on board, you’ll receive a request for the names of each individual in your party. This information is required to allow your party to disembark the ship for the tour.

Minibuses will take up to twelve guests.

This private minibus tour will allow you to take in the ancient site of Ephesus with family or friends.

Enter the magnificent site of the Ancient City of Ephesus at the Magnesia Gate. Whilst Ephesus is now deserted and in ruins, the past glories come to life as the impressive array of temples, agoras, porticoes and fountains come into view. Of particular interest are the Odeon, the Celsius Library, the Temple of Hadrian, the Fountain of Trajan and the Great Theatre.

Built over a 2nd century tomb believed to hold St John the Evangelist, St John's Basilica was once topped with 11 domes and rivalled Istanbul’s St Sophia Basilica in scale. The church is now in ruins, but there are many frescoes, mosaics and columns that attest to the glory that once marked this holy place.

The scenic drive, past countryside cultivated with olive groves, vineyards, tobacco and cotton plantations, will come to life as your guide takes you to the former site of the Temple of Artemis for a memorable photo stop.

The tour will end at a carpet shop in downtown Kusadasi. This is an optional visit to learn about the art of Turkish carpet manufacture. Alternatively you may wish to explore independently or return directly to the ship.


Private tours are non-refundable once confirmed. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability and the number of guests in your party. . Only one person in the party is required to book a ticket. Vehicles are air-conditioned and come with an English-speaking guide and local driver. No deviations to tour content, duration, departure or return time can be made.

There is approximately 2½ hours of walking over uneven, slippery and cobblestoned ground, flat comfortable shoes are recommended. The removal of any pieces from the site is strictly forbidden. Entrance fees are included. Refreshments and gratuities are not included.

Your scenic drive will take you to a vantage point to capture one of the world’s most recognisable sights, the Acropolis. Witness spectacular views of the monuments of the Acropolis and the Parthenon.

The Ancient Agora was once a thriving marketplace and public forum and was the birthplace of Democracy. Browse the small Stoa of Attalus Museum, which houses many artefacts from the area, including a collection of vases, coins and statues before admiring the Doric-style Thission Temple, built in 449 BC.

Overlooked by the mighty monuments of the Acropolis, is the famous shopping district of Athens, the Plaka. You’ll have approximately an hour to wander around this shopping haven.

After free time in the Plaka, enjoy lunch of local and national dishes accompanied with Ouzo, Metaxa Brandy and wine. During lunch you will be entertained by local dancers and a folkloric show.

View the impressive Old Olympic Stadium, (traffic permitting) built for the first modern Olympic Games.

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. This is mainly a walking tour with approximately 2 hours worth of walking. The Acropolis is viewed from a point at the lower entrance, reached by climbing approximately 30 steps. The Ancient Agora and the Plaka will be explored on foot from the Acropolis, resulting in a walk of approximately 45 minutes, over some uneven ground. The Acropolis is undergoing extensive restoration and parts are covered in scaffolding. The order of highlights may vary and the free time may be after lunch.

The charming resort town of Taormina is perched high on a cliff over-looking the Bay of Naxos. Half way up the winding hillside road, your coach will stop in the underground parking area, where you will take the lifts to street level and the Square of Porta Catania.

Your guide will introduce you to the delights of Taormina on a guided walk, including the Piazza Vittorio Emanuele and the bustling main street of Corso Umberto, lined with former mansions and flower-filled balconies. Enjoy wonderful panoramic views from the balcony of Piazza IX Aprile.

Follow your guide up the narrow street for a visit to the Greek-Roman Theatre. This is Taormina’s most famous antiquity, dating back to the 2nd and 3rd centuries BC and which still hosts performances today. The Theatre’s dramatic location is nothing less than breathtaking, with an incredible view of the coast and Mount Etna in the distance.

Time permitting, you will have a short while to browse the shops and boutiques that line the main street of Taormina.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. Lifts must be used from the parking area to access the town centre. If queues form for the use of the lift, then the return to the parking area will be via 140 steps. The majority of this tour is conducted on foot, over some cobbled and uneven ground. Flat, comfortable walking shoes are advisable. Taormina is a popular destination, which can be very crowded in peak season. Guests wishing to use the restrooms in Taormina are expected to make a purchase. Euros and credit or debit cards are accepted for purchases.

Discover ‘sacred’ Olympia, steeped in ancient myth and legend. The Olympic Games are believed to have originated here in 776 BC. Every four years, the Olympic flame is relit and delivered to the Games’ ‘host’ city. Stroll the deserted sanctuary with its temples, altars and treasuries, all overlooked by masses of trees, said to have been planted by Hercules to mark the boundaries of his father's domain. Walk, or for the more active, run the original course in the stadium with its marble starting blocks still intact.

Thought to be one of the most important Museums in Greece, the Archaeological Museum of Olympia is host to a collection of priceless treasures unearthed during archaeological excavations. The Museum offers many awe-inspiring exhibits including the remains of the pediments to the Temple of Zeus, which housed one of the seven wonders of the world, the gold and ivory statue of the God. The marble statue of Hermes, thought to date back to 330 BC will also leave you spellbound with its perfection.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There is over two hours of walking on this tour over some gravel pathways and steps. Flash photography is not permitted inside the Museum. To reach the Museum of Olympia, there is a walk of 400 yards on a slight incline, and over a bridge with 30 steps.

You will have some free time to explore Sorrento’s charming flower-filled streets, array of boutiques, souvenir shops and atmospheric outdoor cafés. Set high upon a cliff overlooking the sea, Sorrento draws visitors from around the world like a magnet. You will see why Sorrento has attracted holidaymakers for as long as people have been taking holidays.

Enjoy a delicious luncheon at a local restaurant in lovely Sorrento.

Possibly the most famous excavation in the world: Pompeii, a flourishing civilisation, buried for thousands of years, has been brought to life again. Twenty feet of ashes and pumice stone once covered Pompeii for almost 1,700 years. Now, much of the debris has been removed to uncover remnants of everyday life. The plaster casts of the volcano’s victims are particularly poignant and one can never forget the events that brought life in Pompeii to an end.

Enjoy a stop at a small cameo shop near Pompeii to browse for delicately handmade jewellery.

Your return journey to Naples will be via motorway.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. A substantial amount of walking is required at Pompeii and surfaces are uneven and cobbled. Flat, comfortable shoes are recommended. The drive between Sorrento and Pompeii takes approximately one hour, however heavy traffic and delays may be experienced. Pushchairs are not recommended at Pompeii.

Step back in time with a walk through Lindos village and up to the summit of the Acropolis to see the magnificent remains of past civilisations. Marvel at the 4th century BC Doric Temple of Athena Lindia, a double-winged portico, a Byzantine church and the fortifications of the Knights of St John, including the remains of the Governor’s quarters. The view is truly panoramic and at the very foot of the Acropolis is St Paul’s Bay, where the Apostle is said to have sought shelter during a storm.

Upon returning from Lindos, a short stop will be made at Archangelos, the island’s largest village in the Valley of Aithona. The village is famous for its long tradition in the art of ceramics. A brief stop will be made at the folk art factory where local artists, using age-old methods, make ceramic wares. There will be an opportunity to purchase the unique items on sale.

Return to the old town of Rhodes with its maze of cobble-stoned streets built inside the medieval city walls. Take some free time to browse in the many quaint shops, brimming with Greek souvenirs.



This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There are approximately 365 steps and narrow cobble-stoned pathways leading to the top of the Acropolis in Lindos. The old town of Rhodes will be explored on foot. Comfortable, non-slip shoes are recommended.

Relax as you head towards the ancient site of Akrotiri during a scenic drive through the island’s quaint villages. The dramatic landscape was formed in 1650 BC when a monstrous volcanic eruption rocked Santorini, creating its dramatic caldera and 2 small islands.

Upon arrival at Akrotiri, your knowledgeable guide will escort you through this unearthed city, which is considered one of the most important prehistoric settlements in the Mediterranean and often referred to as the Minoan Pompeii.

After exploring these fascinating ruins, you’ll revel in the breathtaking views from Santorini’s highest point, The Mountain of Prophet Elijah, which is located 2,000 feet above sea level.

Fira is the island's largest town, where narrow cobblestone lanes lead uphill past whitewashed homes, outdoor cafés and marvellous little shops. Free time will be given for you to explore Fira independently before making your own way back to the ship, using the cable car ticket provided.



This excursion will be by coach and on foot. Free time in Fira involves walking through narrow cobblestone streets with numerous flat steps, so low-heeled, comfortable shoes are recommended. The tour ends in Fira with a walk of 1500 yards to reach the cable car station. Photos are not permitted at Akrotiri. Please be aware ongoing restoration work is often carried out at the sites visited in Akrotiri.

It is said that the building of Athens helped form the foundation of our civilization, including teachings of philosophy, politics, mathematics and art, all derived from Ancient Greece.

After a brief orientation tour, you will be dropped off in central Athens, near the traditional shopping district of the Plaka. This will also be the pick-up point at the pre-set time, to be given by your guide on the coach.

Visit the famous Acropolis and its historic sights or the Plaka with its myriad of shops and tavernas. The most elegant shopping area of Athens is Kolonaki, which above Constitution Square, is lined with exclusive shops and boutiques.



This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. You will be able to explore Athens at your leisure for approximately three hours. This time is non-guided and does not include any entrance fees or luncheon.

Enjoy approximately two hours in the charming hillside town of Taormina to explore, shop for souvenirs or just sit in one of the many street cafés and watch the world go by.

Due to large vehicle restrictions, your coach will stop in the underground parking area, where you will take the lifts to street level and the Square of Porta Catania.

This tour is unguided, so please pay close attention to the pick-up point and time, as coaches cannot be held for latecomers. Entrance fees to the Greek-Roman Theatre are not included.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. Guests are advised that although the walking is optional, the terrain is mostly cobbled and uneven around the town. Lifts must be used from the parking area to access the town centre. If queues form for the use of the lift, then the return to the parking area will be via 140 steps. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. The duration of free time is approximate and dependant on local conditions. Taormina is a popular destination, which can be very crowded in peak season. Guests wishing to use the cafe restrooms in Taormina are expected to make a purchase. Euros and credit or debit cards are accepted for purchases.

The original palace of Knossos was raised around 1900 BC, but was destroyed by an earthquake 200 years later. It was rebuilt on a grander scale, only to be severely damaged by the eruption of Santorini in 1600 BC and ravaged by fire in 1400 BC.

Your guided tour will take you through the marvellous ruins of the ancient complex, restored by Sir Arthur Evans. His work has been criticised by some for its modernity, but it does help you visualise the palace as it was, when it served as the administrative centre for the region.

There will be over an hour of free time for you to stroll at leisure in the town of Heraklion. Perhaps visit the Fountain of Morosini, near the colourful fruit and vegetable market, or shop for some Cretan souvenirs.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. The archaeological site, which will be explored on foot, has uneven pathways and rough ground and there are 15 steps to be negotiated in various places. Flash photography is not permitted at the archaeological site. Heraklion will be explored on foot during the free time.

Your journey from Civitavecchia takes you along the highway, through the city and into the heart of Rome.

Upon arrival, you will visit one of the grandest of all Rome's monuments, the Colosseum. Once inside, it is easy to imagine the magnificence of ancient Rome. From one of the great viewpoints, you will see this enormous arena that once featured 76 numbered entrances, marble seats and subterranean passages where animals and other apparatus were hidden from view.

A short stroll from the Colosseum leads you to the Roman Forum (exterior view). See remains of the Senate buildings, where decisions affecting the entire Roman Empire took place. Your guided walk will continue through Venice Square and on to the Trevi Fountain.

Join the romantic custom of tossing a coin into Rome's most famous fountain to ensure that some day you will return.

To round off your tour, you will head to the Pantheon for an exterior view of the immense columns and awe-inspiring hemispherical dome. Afterwards, free time will be given for you to enjoy the charming Piazza Navona and browse the shops and boutiques.

An Italian-style luncheon will be served to allow you to 'refuel' during your tour.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. This tour involves a substantial amount of walking and standing (approximately six hours in total). Flat, comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Please dress appropriately for entering churches.The itinerary is subject to local conditions.

Enter the magnificent site of the Ancient City of Ephesus at the Magnesia Gate. Whilst Ephesus is now deserted and in ruins, the past glories come to life as the impressive array of temples, agoras, porticoes and fountains come into view. Of particular interest are the Odeon, the Celsius Library, the Temple of Hadrian, the Fountain of Trajan and the Great Theatre.

Built over a 2nd century tomb believed to hold St John the Evangelist, St John's Basilica was once topped with eleven domes and rivalled Istanbul's St Sophia Basilica in scale. The church is now in ruins, but there are many frescoes, mosaics and columns that attest to the glory that once marked this holy place.

The scenic drive, past countryside cultivated with olive groves, vineyards, tobacco and cotton plantations, will come to life as your guide takes you to the former site of the Temple of Artemis for a memorable photograph stop.

The tour will end at a carpet shop in downtown Kusadasi. This is an optional visit to learn about the art of Turkish carpet manufacture. Those not wishing to visit may wish to explore independently or return directly to the ship.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There is approximately 2½ hours of walking over uneven, slippery and cobblestoned ground, flat comfortable shoes are recommended. The removal of any pieces from the site is strictly forbidden.

Rhodes has been one of the Mediterranean’s biggest and most popular holiday resorts for over 30 years and it is easy to see why. A big element of the popularity is the beaches boasting crystal clear waters of the Aegean with fine golden sand.

A return transfer will be provided for you from the ship to one of the Island’s most famous beaches at Tsambika where you will have approximately three hours to enjoy a morning in the sun, swim in the sea and relax with a soft drink or juice at a taverna. The beach is named after the Church of the Virgin Tsambika which was built upon a high cliff overlooking the beach.

Whilst this is a reasonably unspoiled part of Rhodes, the beach still offers a limited selection of water sports, several tavernas and a mini market situated just a little off the beach.



BEACH/WATER RELATED EXCURSIONS
For any excursion involving water, guests are reminded to exercise particular care. Alcohol and eating a full meal should be avoided before swimming. If buoyancy aids are provided for an activity they must be worn at all times. You should bear in mind that the sea is unpredictable. Lifeguards are unlikely to be present and there may not be a flag system to indicate whether or not it is safe to go in the water. In addition, beach activities may not be supervised or accompanied and so you should take care to satisfy yourself as to the safety of the beach and/or the sea at the time of your excursion. Please exercise caution when entering the sea as the seabed and aquatic environment is capable of springing surprises and we have not inspected the beach or seabed for its safety. Children must be supervised by you at all times near water. All activities on the beach, water and in the sea are undertaken at your own risk. You’ll need to take swimwear, a towel, sunscreen and flat shoes that can be worn in the water.

LIABILITY
Cunard will arrange for the excursions to be performed by the relevant excursion provider. Cunard does not provide or supply the excursion services. Cunard will exercise reasonable care and skill in the selection of the excursion provider, but will not in any circumstances have a greater liability than the excursion supplier and Cunard shall not be responsible for the negligent acts/omissions of the excursion supplier. Please note that in relation to all excursions Cunard is not responsible or liable for any loss, damage, or injury sustained by you unless such loss, damage or injury arises out of a breach of legal duty of Cunard.

TRAVEL INSURANCE
Before booking any activity excursions it is essential that you ensure your travel insurance extends to cover the specified activity. It is your responsibility to obtain adequate insurance.

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. We would advise you to take sun protection, a sun hat and a towel. Please remember to take local currency (Euros). Sun beds and one umbrella, per two beds, have been reserved for you and are included. There may be independent suppliers on the beach that offer watersports. These are provided by parties unconnected to Cunard.

Corfu is more lush and verdant than most Greek islands and this is apparent as you drive through groves of olive, orange and lemon trees, interspersed with tall, graceful cypresses.

In the village of Gastouri is the Achilleion Palace, or Elisabeth's Folly. You are sure to find the views impressive and there will be time to explore the manicured, gardens, containing statues including the dramatic Dying Achilles.

Today the Mon Repos Palace, where Prince Phillip, Duke of Edinburgh was born, has been turned into the Paleopolis Museum, housing finds from various archaeological sites. Set in beautiful gardens, the grounds have ancient Greek temples and a Byzantine town. Sweeping views of the sea from high up, add to the beauty of the location.

A stop for refreshments will be made at a local venue.

A brief photograph stop will be made near the Old Fortress of Corfu to take in views of the beautiful Old Town.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. Please note that the journey is along some winding roads and this excursion does not include a guided tour of Corfu Town. You may opt to remain in the town and make your own way back to the ship, please advise your guide, if you wish to do this. There are 50 steps to visit the Gardens of Achilleion Palace and the stairs do not have handrails. Total walking time during this tour is 1½ hours. Comfortable, non-slip shoes are recommended.

From Naples, travel along the coastal road, which winds its way towards Sorrento. Enjoy the views across the Bay of Naples to Vesuvius and the Isle of Capri. As you near the town, you will see why Sorrento is such a magnet for both Italian and foreign visitors. With an elevated cliff top position Sorrento affords splendid views of the colourful marina and sparkling Mediterranean Sea below.

Time permitting, pause briefly at a panoramic viewpoint to capture the best of Sorrento's coast.

Upon arrival in Sorrento, your guide will offer a little information about the town before you head off for independent exploration. Perhaps browse the quaint shops and pick up some souvenirs of your visit, or simply stroll the streets of Sorrento and soak up the charming atmosphere. Afterwards, rejoin your guide and coach at the designated meeting point for the return drive to Naples.

During your tour a complimentary soft drink, ice cream or coffee refreshment will be available.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There is a short walk from the coach drop-off point in Sorrento. The level of walking during this tour is at guests' discretion. Please note that the traffic to and from Sorrento can be extremely busy and some delays may be experienced. The free time spent in Sorrento is around 2½-3 hours; this is subject to local traffic conditions on the day and may vary. Euros and major debit or credit cards are accepted for purchases. Please ensure that you note the coach departure time and meeting point and arrive in good time.